How to Connect a Chromebook to Wi-Fi Networks

Open the Wi-Fi menu

On ChromeOS, the quickest way to reach Wi-Fi controls is through the status area. Click the time in the bottom right corner of the screen. This opens the Quick Settings panel with toggles for common features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and screen brightness.

If you are not yet signed in to your Chromebook, you can still connect to a network from the sign-in screen. Look for the Wi-Fi icon in the bottom right of the login screen and click it to select a network before entering your password. This is helpful for first-time setup, especially if you are using a device that needs to download updates right away.

The Quick Settings panel also shows the current network name and signal strength. Clicking the Wi-Fi icon expands a list of available networks, along with an option to turn Wi-Fi on or off. If you do not see any networks, ensure that your router is broadcasting and that you are within range.

• The Wi-Fi icon appears as a series of arcs; the more filled arcs, the stronger the signal.
• If Wi-Fi is turned off, the icon shows a slash and you can click it to turn the radio back on.
• You can also open full Settings by clicking the gear icon in Quick Settings, then selecting Network.

Connect to a network

With the Wi-Fi menu open, you will see a list of nearby networks. Click the network you want to join. If the network is secured, a password prompt appears. Enter the password and click Connect. If the network is open, you may connect without a password, but ChromeOS will warn you that the connection is not private.

By default, your Chromebook will remember the network and automatically reconnect when it is in range. If you do not want this behavior, uncheck 'Connect automatically' before confirming. This can be useful for public networks that you use only occasionally.

For networks that do not broadcast their name (hidden networks), click 'Add network' at the bottom of the list. In the dialog that appears, enter the exact network name (SSID), choose the security type (usually WPA2 or WPA3), and enter the password. Your Chromebook will save this network like any other.

• If you are unsure about the security type, most modern routers use WPA2 or WPA3.
• You can also set the network to 'Connect automatically' at this point.
• After connecting, you can test your connection by opening any website in the Chrome browser.

Manage saved networks

ChromeOS keeps a list of all Wi-Fi networks you have joined. This list helps your device decide which network to prefer when several are in range. To view and manage these networks, open the Wi-Fi menu and click 'Manage networks' at the bottom of the list.

In this view, you can reorder networks by dragging the handle next to each network name. This sets the priority order for automatic connections. For example, you might place your home network above a neighbor's open network to avoid hopping unintentionally.

To remove a network, click the X next to its name. Forgetting a network deletes the stored password, so you will need to re-enter it the next time you connect. This is also a good first step when troubleshooting a network that refuses to connect.

• The 'Manage networks' page also shows the signal strength and security type for each saved network.
• If you have many saved networks, you can search for one using the search box.
• Some networks may appear with a lock icon, indicating that they are secured with encryption.

Troubleshoot connection problems

If you cannot connect to a Wi-Fi network, try these steps in order: turn Wi-Fi off and on from Quick Settings, then select the network again. Check that the password is correct, especially if the network name appears with a lock icon. A common mistake is typing the wrong password or leaving a space at the end.

If the network is still visible but will not connect, forget the network from 'Manage networks' and reconnect from scratch. This clears any stored credentials that may have become corrupted. Restarting your Chromebook can also clear temporary software glitches that affect Wi-Fi.

For persistent issues after trying these steps, you can use the built-in network diagnostics. Look for a 'Network' option in Settings > Network, which may guide you through troubleshooting. If the problem continues, consult the dedicated guide for fixing Wi-Fi issues.

Remember that your Chromebook receives automatic updates, and these updates sometimes change network settings. Check if the problem appeared after a recent update, and consider restarting to finalize the update.

• Make sure airplane mode is turned off; you can toggle it from Quick Settings.
• Move closer to the router to improve signal strength, as walls and other obstacles can weaken the signal.
• Check if other devices can connect to the same network; if not, the issue is with the router.
• Restart your router by unplugging it for 10 seconds and plugging it back in.

Ethernet and mobile data

While Wi-Fi is the most common way to get online, some Chromebooks offer alternative connections. You can use a USB-C or USB-A Ethernet adapter for a wired connection, which is often more stable and faster than Wi-Fi, especially for large downloads or video calls. This is useful in office settings where Ethernet ports are available.

Some Chromebooks also support LTE or 5G via a SIM card, letting you connect to the internet through your cellular provider's network. This is handy for travelers or those in areas with poor Wi-Fi coverage. To set up a mobile connection, you may need to insert a SIM card and configure the APN settings, which is usually done automatically.

For a deeper look at the various connectivity options, see our article on connectivity ports and the differences between Wi-Fi standards. If you plan to rely on mobile data, learning about LTE and 5G options can help you choose a compatible device.

• Ethernet adapters vary in speed; gigabit adapters offer the best performance but are not always necessary.
• Cellular-capable Chromebooks often have a SIM slot on the side or back; check your device's manual.
• Using mobile data for system updates can consume a lot of data; ChromeOS will warn you before downloading.

Stay connected for updates

Your Chromebook automatically checks for software updates when it connects to the internet. To check manually, open Quick Settings, click the gear icon for Settings, then go to About ChromeOS and click 'Check for updates'. This ensures you have the latest security patches and features.

Updates require a stable internet connection. If you are on a metered connection, such as a mobile hotspot, ChromeOS will alert you about the data usage before downloading. It is recommended to connect to a Wi-Fi network for large updates to avoid data charges.

ChromeOS devices receive 10 years of automatic updates, according to Google's Auto Update policy. This means your device stays secure for a long time, but it also means that you need to keep it connected to the internet regularly to receive those updates.

If you are using a Chromebook for work or school, your administrator may manage update policies. In that case, you may see notifications like 'An update is required' or 'An update is recommended'. Follow the prompts to restart and finish the update.

• To see your device's update expiration date, go to Settings > About ChromeOS > Additional details.
• If an update fails, restart your Chromebook and try again.
• You can also update over Ethernet if Wi-Fi is unstable.

What to pick for your network needs

Questions

Why won't my Chromebook connect to Wi-Fi?

Start by restarting your Chromebook and turning Wi-Fi off and on from Quick Settings. Make sure the password is correct and that you are within range of the router. If the issue persists, forget the network and reconnect.

How do I forget a saved Wi-Fi network?

Open the Wi-Fi menu, click 'Manage networks', then click the X next to the network you want to remove. This deletes the saved password and your Chromebook will no longer auto-connect.

Can I connect to a hidden network?

Yes. Open the Wi-Fi menu and click 'Add network'. Enter the exact network name (SSID), select the correct security type, and enter the password. Your Chromebook will save it like any other network.

Why does my Chromebook keep disconnecting from Wi-Fi?

Possible causes include weak signal, router interference, or power-saving settings. Try moving closer to the router, forget and reconnect to the network, and check if the problem happens on other devices.

Can I use Ethernet with a Chromebook?

Yes, if your Chromebook has a USB-A or USB-C port. You can use a compatible USB Ethernet adapter for a wired connection, which is often more stable than Wi-Fi.